Standard Specification for

Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe,

300- to 1500-mm (12- to 60-in.)
Diameter

AASHTO Designation: M 294-17

Technical Section: 4b, Flexible and Metallic Pipe
Release: Group 2 (June 2017)

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 Standard Specification for

Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe,

300- to 1500-mm (12- to 60-in.) Diameter

AASHTO Designation: M 294-17

Technical Section: 4b, Flexible and Metallic Pipe
Release: Group 2 (June 2017)

1. SCOPE
1.1. This specification covers the requirements and methods of tests for corrugated polyethylene (PE)
pipe, couplings, and fittings for use in surface and subsurface drainage applications.

1.1.1. Nominal sizes of 300 to 1500 mm (12 to 60 in.) are included.

1.1.2. Materials, workmanship, dimensions, pipe stiffness, slow crack growth resistance, joining
systems, brittleness, and form of markings are specified.

1.2. Corrugated PE pipe is intended for surface and subsurface drainage applications where soil
provides support to its flexible walls. Its major use is to collect or convey drainage water by open
gravity flow, as culverts, storm drains, etc.
Note 1When PE pipe is to be used in locations where the ends may be exposed, consideration
should be given to protection of the exposed portions due to combustibility of the PE and the
deteriorating effects of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

1.3. UnitsThe values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Within the text, the
U.S. Customary units are shown in parentheses, and may not be exact equivalents.

1.4. This specification does not include requirements for bedding, backfill, or earth cover load.
Successful performance of this product depends on proper type of bedding and backfill, and care
in installation. The structural design of corrugated PE pipe and the proper installation procedures
are given in AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, Section 12, and LFRD Bridge
Construction Specifications, Section 30, respectively. Upon request of the user or engineer, the
manufacturer shall provide profile wall section detail required for a full engineering evaluation.

1.5. The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 9.4, of this
specification. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any,
associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate
safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
2.1. AASHTO Standards:
R 16, Regulatory Information for Chemicals Used in AASHTO Tests
T 341, Determination of Compression Capacity for Profile Wall Plastic Pipe by Stub
Compression Loading

TS-4b M 294-1 --`,,,,`,````,``,,``,,`,`,,`,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

AASHTO
2017 by the American Association of State
Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
Provided by IHS Markit under license with AASHTO Highway and
Licensee=Enterprise WideTransportation Officials. User=kahraman, safak
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 AASHTO LRFD Bridge Construction Specifications
AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications

2.2. ASTM Standards:

D618, Standard Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
D638, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
D883, Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
D2122, Standard Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Thermoplastic Pipe and
Fittings
D2412, Standard Test Method for Determination of External Loading Characteristics of
Plastic Pipe by Parallel-Plate Loading
D2444, Standard Test Method for Determination of the Impact Resistance of Thermoplastic
Pipe and Fittings by Means of a Tup (Falling Weight)
D3212, Standard Specification for Joints for Drain and Sewer Plastic Pipes Using Flexible
Elastomeric Seals
D3350, Standard Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Pipe and Fittings Materials
D4218, Standard Test Method for Determination of Carbon Black Content in Polyethylene
Compounds By the Muffle-Furnace Technique
D4703, Standard Practice for Compression Molding Thermoplastic Materials into Test
Specimens, Plaques, or Sheets
D5397, Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Stress Crack Resistance of Polyolefin
Geomembranes Using Notched Constant Tensile Load Test
F412, Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
F477, Standard Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining Plastic Pipe
F2136, Standard Test Method for Notched, Constant Ligament-Stress (NCLS) Test to
Determine Slow-Crack-Growth Resistance of HDPE Resins or HDPE Corrugated Pipe

3. TERMINOLOGY
3.1. The terminology used in this standard is in accordance with the definitions given in ASTM D883
and ASTM F412 unless otherwise specified.

3.2. bucklingDuring pipe flattening testing, any decrease or downward deviation in the pipe load-
deflection test curve at or below the calculated buckling deflection limit shall be considered a
buckling point.

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3.3. crackany break or split that extends through the wall or liner.

3.4. creasea visible irrecoverable indentation.

3.5. buckling deflection limit - is the percentage reduction of the inside diameter of the pipe for the
extreme fiber of the wall profile to reach the factored combined compressive strain limit of 6.15%
for HDPE pipe per AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, Section 12.

3.6. delaminationA separation between the inner liner and outer corrugated wall of Type S pipe as
evidenced by a visible gap extending completely through at least one corrugation valley at any
point around the circumference of the pipe. For Type D pipe, delamination is a separation of the
liner and outer wall as evidenced by a visible gap extending completely between the internal
supports and liner or outer wall at any point around the circumference of the pipe.

TS-4b M 294-2 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
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 3.7. polyethylene (PE) plasticsplastics based on polymers made with ethylene as essentially the sole
monomer (ASTM D883).

3.8. reworked plastica plastic from a processors own production that has been reground, pelletized,
or solvated after having been previously processed by molding, extrusion, etc. (ASTM D883).

3.9. slow crack growtha phenomenon by which a stress crack may form. A stress crack is an
external or internal crack in plastic caused by tensile stresses less than its short-time mechanical
strength.

3.10. virgin polyethylene materialPE plastic material in the form of pellets, granules, powder, floc, or
liquid that has not been subject to use or processing other than required for initial manufacture.

4. CLASSIFICATION
4.1. The corrugated PE pipe covered by this specification is classified as follows:
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4.1.1. Type CThis pipe shall have a full circular cross section, with a corrugated surface both inside
and outside. Corrugations shall be annular.

4.1.1.1. Type CPThis pipe shall be Type C with perforations.

4.1.2. Type SThis pipe shall have a full circular cross section, with an outer corrugated pipe wall and a
smooth inner liner. Corrugations shall be annular.

4.1.2.1. Type SPThis pipe shall be Type S with perforations.

4.1.3. Type DThis pipe shall consist of an essentially smooth liner braced circumferentially or spirally
with projections or ribs joined to an essentially smooth outer wall.

4.1.3.1. Type DPThis pipe shall be Type D with perforations.

4.2. Two classes of perforations are as described in Sections 7.3.1 and 7.3.2.

5. ORDERING INFORMATION
5.1. Orders using this specification shall include the following information, as necessary, to
adequately describe the desired product:

5.1.1. AASHTO designation and year of issue;

5.1.2. Type of pipe (Section 4.1);

5.1.3. Diameter and length required, either total length or length of each piece and number of pieces;

5.1.4. Number of couplings;

5.1.5. Class of perforations (Class 2 is furnished if not specified) (Section 7.3); and

5.1.6. Certification, if desired (Section 12.1).

TS-4b M 294-3 AASHTO

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 6. MATERIALS
6.1. Basic Materials:

6.1.1. Extruded Pipe and Blow Molded FittingsPipe and fittings shall be made of virgin PE resin
compounds meeting the requirements of ASTM D3350 and cell classification 435400C, except
that the carbon black content shall not exceed 4.0 percent. The cell classification shall be based on
the virgin PE resin compounds without carbon black. Resins that have higher cell classifications
in one or more properties, with the exception of density, are acceptable provided product
requirements are met. For slow crack growth resistance, acceptance of resins shall be determined
by using the notched constant ligament-stress (NCLS) test according to the procedure described
in Section 9.4. For slow crack growth resistance, acceptance of pipe shall be determined by tests
on the finished pipe using the NCLS test according to the procedure described in Section 9.4. The
average failure time of the pipe liner shall not be less than 18 h. If profile geometries do not have
a flat portion of sufficient length to produce an NCLS tensile specimen of 25 mm (1 in.) length,
usually 15-in. diameter or less, the pipe sample shall be ground and a test plaque made in
accordance with ASTM D4703 Procedure C at a cooling rate of 15C/min (27F/min) and tested
per ASTM F2136. The average failure time of test specimens from plaques shall not be less
than 24 h.

6.1.2. Rotational Molded Fittings and CouplingsFittings and couplings shall be made of virgin PE
resins meeting the requirements of ASTM D3350 and cell classification 213320C, except that the
carbon black content shall not exceed 5 percent. Resins that have higher cell classifications in one
or more properties are acceptable provided product requirements are met.

6.1.3. Injection Molded Fittings and CouplingsFittings and couplings shall be made of virgin PE
resins meeting the requirements of ASTM D3350 and cell classification 314420C, except that the
carbon black content shall not exceed 5 percent. Resins that have higher cell classifications in one
or more properties are acceptable provided product requirements are met.

6.2. Reworked PlasticIn lieu of virgin PE, clean reworked plastic may be used by the manufacturer,
provided that it meets the cell class requirements as described in Section 6.1.

6.3. Resin BlendingWhen blended resins are used, the components of the blend must be virgin PE
and the final blend must meet all of the requirements of Section 6.1.1 for extruded pipe and blow
molded fittings, Section 6.1.2 for rotational molded fittings and couplings, and Section 6.1.3 for
injection molded fittings and couplings.

7. REQUIREMENTS
7.1. WorkmanshipThe pipe and fittings shall be free of foreign inclusions and visible defects as
defined herein. The ends of the pipe shall be cut squarely and cleanly so as not to adversely affect
joining or connecting.

7.1.1. Visible DefectsCracks, creases, delaminations, and unpigmented or nonuniformly pigmented

pipe are not permissible in the pipe or fittings as furnished. There shall be no evidence of
delamination when tested in accordance with Section 9.7.
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7.2. Pipe Dimensions:

7.2.1. Nominal SizeThe nominal size for the pipe and fittings is based on the nominal inside diameter
of the pipe. Nominal diameters shall be 300, 375, 450, 525, 600, 675, 750, 900, 1050, 1200, 1350,
and 1500 mm (12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 36, 42, 48, 54, and 60 in.).

TS-4b M 294-4 AASHTO

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 7.2.2. Liner ThicknessThe liner of Type S pipe, and both liner and outer wall of Type D pipe shall
have the following minimum thicknesses when measured in accordance with Section 9.6.4.

Diameter, mm (in.) Liner Thickness, Mina, mm (in.)

300 (12) 0.9 (0.035)
375 (15) 1.0 (0.04)
450 (18) 1.3 (0.05)
525 (21) 1.5 (0.06)
600 (24) 1.5 (0.06)
675 (27) 1.5 (0.06)
750 (30) 1.5 (0.06)
900 (36) 1.7 (0.07)
1050 (42) 1.8 (0.07)
1200 (48) 1.8 (0.07)
1350 (54) 2.0 (0.08)
1500 (60) 2.0 (0.08)
a
For Type D profile, the minimum liner thickness shall also apply to the outer
wall.

7.2.3. Inside Diameter TolerancesThe tolerance on the specified inside diameter shall be 4.5 percent
oversize and 1.5 percent undersize, but not more than 37 mm (1.5 in.) oversize when measured in
accordance with Section 9.6.1.

7.2.4. LengthCorrugated PE pipe may be sold in any length agreeable to the user. Lengths shall not be
less than 99 percent of the stated quantity when measured in accordance with Section 9.6.2.

7.3. PerforationsWhen perforated pipe is specified, the perforations shall conform to the
requirements of Class 2, unless otherwise specified in the order. Class 1 perforations are for pipe
intended to be used for subsurface drainage or combination storm and underdrain. Class 2
perforations are for pipe intended to be used for subsurface drainage only. The perforations shall
be cleanly cut so as not to restrict the inflow of water. Pipe connected by couplings or bands may

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be unperforated within 100 mm (4 in.) of each end of each length of pipe. Pipe connected by bell
and spigot joints may not be perforated in the area of the bells and spigots.

TS-4b M 294-5 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
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Resale, 11/14/2017 22:11:56 MST law.
 CL

CL

L
H
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um
im
ax
M
85
80 Minimum

Figure 1Requirements for Perforations

Table 1Rows of Perforations, Height H of the Centerline of the Uppermost Rows above the Invert, and Chord
Length L of Unperforated Segment, for Class 1 Perforations
Nominal Diameter, mm (in.) Rows of Perforationsa H, Max,b mm (in.) L, Min,b mm (in.)
300 (12) 6 138 (5.4) 192 (7.5)
375 (15) 6 172 (6.75) 240 (9.5)
450 (18) 6 207 (8.15) 288 (11.3)
525 (21) 6 241 (9.5) 336 (13.2)
600 and larger (24 and larger) 8 c c

a
Minimum number of rows. A greater number of rows for increased inlet area shall be subject to agreement between purchaser and manufacturer. Note that the
number of perforations per meter in each row (and inlet area) is dependent on the corrugation pitch.
b
See Figure 1 for location of dimensions H and L.
c
H(max) = 0.46D; L(min) = 0.64D, where D = nominal diameter of pipe, mm.

7.3.1. Class 1 PerforationsThe perforations shall be approximately circular and shall have nominal
diameters of not less than 5 mm (0.2 in.) nor greater than 10 mm (0.4 in.) and shall be arranged in
rows parallel to the axis of the pipe. For Type CP and SP pipe, the perforations shall be located in
the external valleys with perforations in each row for each corrugation. (The perforations shall not
cut into the corrugation sidewalls.) For Type DP pipe, perforations shall be located in the center of
the cells. The perforations shall not cut into the vertical sections of the cells. The rows of
perforations shall be arranged in two equal groups placed symmetrically on either side of the
lower unperforated segment corresponding to the flow line of the pipe. The spacing of the rows
shall be uniform. The distance between the centerlines of the rows shall not be less than 25 mm
(1 in.). The minimum number of longitudinal rows of perforations, the maximum height of the
centerlines of the uppermost rows of perforations above the bottom of the invert, and the inside
chord lengths of the unperforated segments illustrated in Figure 1 shall be as specified in Table 1.

7.3.2. Class 2 PerforationsCircular perforations shall be a minimum of 5 mm (0.2 in.) and shall not
exceed 10 mm (0.4 in.) in diameter. The width of slots shall not exceed 3 mm (0.1 in.). The length
of slots shall not exceed 70 mm (2.75 in.) for 300 mm (12 in.) and 375 mm (15 in.) pipe and
75 mm (3 in.) for 450 mm (18 in.) and larger pipe. Perforations shall be placed in the external
valleys for Type CP and SP pipe and in the center of the cells for Type DP pipe. Perforations shall
be uniformly spaced along the length and circumference of the pipe. The water inlet area shall be

TS-4b M 294-6 AASHTO

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 a minimum of 30 cm2/m (1.5 in.2/ft) for pipe sizes 300 to 450 mm (12 to 18 in.) and 40 cm2/m
(2 in.2/ft) for pipe sizes larger than 450 mm (18 in.). All measurements shall be made in
accordance with Section 9.6.3.

7.4. Pipe StiffnessThe pipe shall have a minimum pipe stiffness at 5 percent deflection as follows
when tested in accordance with Section 9.1.

Diameter, mm (in.) Pipe Stiffness, kPa (psi)

300 (12) 345 (50)
375 (15) 290 (42)
450 (18) 275 (40)
525 (21) 260 (38)
600 (24) 235 (34)
675 (27) 205 (30)a
750 (30) 200 (29)a
900 (36) 155 (22.5)a
1050 (42) 145 (21)a
1200 (48) 135 (20)a
1350 (54) 120 (18)a
1500 (60) 105 (15)a
a
For diameters 675 mm (27 in.) and larger, the stiffness test is conducted
at a higher loading rate than ASTM D2412 as described in Section 9.1.

7.5. Pipe FlatteningPipe specimens shall show no visible evidence of cracking, splitting, or
delamination when tested in accordance with Section 9.2. Additionally, pipe specimens shall not
exhibit a decrease or downward deviation in the load-deflection curve prior to the buckling
deflection limit calculated in Section 9.2.1.

7.6. BrittlenessPipe specimens shall not crack or split when tested in accordance with Section 9.3.
Five nonfailures out of six impacts will be acceptable.

7.7. Stub Compression TestProfile compression capacity in any specimen in the stub compression
test shall not be less than 50 percent of the gross cross-sectional area times the minimum specified
yield strength when tested in accordance with Section 9.8. The stub compression test, AASHTO
T 341, shall be a material and wall design qualification test conducted twice a year or whenever
there are changes in wall design or material distribution. Computing the minimum capacity
requires determining the cross-sectional area of the pipe wall. This can be accomplished
conveniently by optically scanning the profile and determining the section properties using a
computer drafting program.

7.8. Fitting Requirements:

7.8.1. The fittings shall not reduce or impair the overall integrity or function of the pipe line.

7.8.2. Common corrugated fittings include in-line joint fittings, such as couplings and reducers, and
branch or complementary assembly fittings such as tees, wyes, and end caps. These fittings are
installed by various methods.
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7.8.3. All fittings shall be within an overall length dimensional tolerance 12 mm (0.5 in.) of the
manufacturers specified dimensions when measured in accordance with Section 9.6.2.

7.8.4. Fittings shall not reduce the inside diameter of the pipe being joined by more than 12 mm (0.5 in.).
Reducer fittings shall not reduce the cross-sectional area of the small size.

TS-4b M 294-7 AASHTO

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 7.8.5. Couplings shall be corrugated to match the pipe corrugations and shall provide sufficient
longitudinal strength to preserve pipe alignment and prevent separation at the joints. Couplings
shall be bell and spigot or split collar. Split couplings shall engage at least two full corrugations on
each pipe section.

7.8.6. The design of the fittings shall be such that when connected with the pipe, the axis of the assembly
will be level and true when tested in accordance with Section 9.5.2.

7.8.7. Other types of coupling bands or fastening devices that are equally effective as those described,
and that comply with the joint performance criteria of AASHTO LRFD Bridge Construction
Specifications, Section 30, may be used when approved by the purchaser.

7.8.8. Only fittings supplied or recommended by the pipe manufacturer shall be used. Fabricated fittings
shall be manufactured from pipe meeting the requirements of this specification and all seams must
be completely sealed with compatible PE material.

7.8.9. Fabricated fittings shall be supplied with joints compatible with the overall system.

7.9. Joint Requirements:

7.9.1. All joints shall meet the requirements of a soiltight joint unless otherwise specified by the
owner/designer.

7.9.2. Soiltight joints are specified as a function of opening size, channel length, and backfill particle
size. If the size of the opening exceeds 3 mm (0.12 in.), the length of the channel must be at least
four times the size of the opening. A backfill material containing a high percentage of fine-graded
soils requires investigation for the specific type of joint to be used to guard against soil infiltration.
Information regarding joint soiltightness criteria can be found in AASHTO LRFD Bridge
Construction Specifications, Section 30, Thermoplastic Pipe.

7.9.3. Silt-tight joints should be used where the backfill material has a high percentage of fines. Silt-tight
bell and spigot joints will utilize an elastomeric rubber seal meeting ASTM F477. Silt-tight joints
must be designated to pass a laboratory pressure test of at least 14 kPa (2 psi).

7.9.4. Watertight joints must meet a 74 kPa (10.8 psi) laboratory test per ASTM D3212 and utilize a bell
and spigot design with a gasket meeting ASTM F477.

8. CONDITIONING

8.1. ConditioningCondition the specimen prior to test at 21 to 25C (70 to 77F) for not fewer than
24 h in accordance with Procedure A in ASTM D618 for those tests for which conditioning is
required, and unless otherwise specified.

8.2. ConditionsConduct all tests at a laboratory temperature of 21 to 25C (70 to 77F) unless
otherwise specified herein.

9. TEST METHODS
9.1. Pipe StiffnessSelect a minimum of two (2) pipe specimens and test for pipe stiffness (PS), as
described in ASTM D2412 except for the following: (1) the test specimens shall be a minimum of
one diameter length for 300-mm (12-in.) to 600-mm (24-in.) diameter pipe, and one-half diameter
length for pipe diameters greater than 600 mm (24 in.); (2) locate the first specimen in the loading
machine with an imaginary line connecting the two seams formed by the corrugation mold (end

TS-4b M 294-8 AASHTO

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 view) parallel to the loading plates, when applicable. The specimen must lie flat on the plate
within 3 mm (0.12 in.) and may be straightened by hand bending at room temperature to
accomplish this. Use the first location as a reference point for rotation and testing of the other
specimen. Rotate the second specimen 90 degrees from the orientation of the first specimen and
test. Test each specimen in one position only; (3) the deflection indicator shall be readable and
accurate to 0.02 mm (0.001 in.); (4) the residual curvature found in tubing frequently results in
an erratic initial load-deflection curve. When this occurs, the beginning point for deflection
measurement shall be at a load of 20 5 N (4.5 lbf 1.1 lbf). The point shall be considered as the
origin of the load-deflection curve; (5) the crosshead speed shall be the faster of 12.7 mm min
(0.5 in./min) or 2 percent of the nominal inside diameter per minute.

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Note 2The loading plates must exceed the length of the test specimen as specified above.
Note 3Additional pipe specimens may be tested at other orientations for pipe stiffness and
flattening if desired.

9.2. Pipe FlatteningFlatten the two pipe specimens from Section 9.1 until the vertical inside
diameter is reduced to 1.5 times the buckling deflection limit calculated in Section 9.2.1. The rate
of loading shall be the same as in Section 9.1. Immediately after the specimen has started to
unload, check for visible evidence of cracking, splitting, or delamination.

9.2.1. The buckling deflection limit shall be determined by the following equation:
6.15% 0.5 D
b = (1)
D f 0.6 hp
which simplifies to:
1.20D
b =
hp
where:
b = Minimum buckling deflection limit, percent (%)
D = Inside diameter of pipe, mm (in.)
Df = Shape factor = 4.27
hp = Corrugation height, mm (in.)

Note 4The constant value 6.15 percent in the equation is the factored combined strain limit for
HDPE pipe per AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, Section 12.
Note 5The constant value 0.6 in the equation is based on the estimated distance from the
centroid to the extreme fiber of the wall profile (0.6 hp) for typical profiles produced per this
specification.

9.2.1.1. The corrugation height, hp, shall be determined by the following equation:
( OD ID )
hp = (2)
2
where:
hp = Corrugation height, mm (in.)
ID = Measured inside diameter of pipe, mm (in.)
OD = Measured outside diameter of pipe, mm (in.)

ID shall be measured in accordance with Section 9.6.1. OD shall be measured with a

circumferential wrap tape or other suitable device in accordance with ASTM D2122.
Figure 2 shows an illustration of the corrugation height, and Figure 3 shows example
measurements of the inside and outside diameters.

TS-4b M 294-9 AASHTO

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 Figure 2Example Illustration of the Corrugation Height, hp

TS-4b M 294-10 AASHTO

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Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

Provided by IHS Markit under license with AASHTO 2017 by the American Association of State Highway and
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 Figure 3Example Measurement of the Inside Diameter with a Vernier Caliper and the Outside Diameter with a
Circumferential Wrap Tape. Other measurement techniques in accordance with ASTM D2122 are permissible.

9.2.2. It is permissible to run the pipe stiffness test in conjunction with the pipe flattening test as long as
individual evaluations are made for their respective criteria as specified under Sections 7.4 and 9.1
(stiffness) and Sections 7.5, 9.2, and 9.2.1 (flattening).

9.3. BrittlenessTest pipe specimens in accordance with ASTM D2444 except six specimens shall be
tested, or six impacts shall be made on one specimen. In the latter case, successive impacts shall
be separated by 120 10 degrees for impacts made on one circle, or at least 300 mm (12 in.)
longitudinally for impacts made on one element. Impact points shall be at least 150 mm (6 in.)
from the end of the specimen. Tup B shall be used, with a mass of 4.5 kg (10 lb). The height of
drop shall be 3.0 m (10 ft). Use a flat plate specimen holder. Condition the specimens for 24 h at a
temperature of 4 2C (25 3.6F), and conduct all tests within 60 s of removal from this
atmosphere. The center of the falling tup shall strike on a corrugation crown for all impacts.

9.4. Slow Crack Growth Resistance of Polyethylene PipeTest specimens from the pipe liner for
stress crack resistance in accordance with ASTM F2136, the NCLS test, except for the following
modifications:

9.4.1. The applied stress for the NCLS test shall be 4100 kPa (600 psi).
Note 6The notched depth of 20 percent of the nominal thickness of the specimen is critical to
this procedure.

9.4.2. The liner NCLS test specimens shall be die cut longitudinally from the pipe liner and notched on
the outer surface of the liner, perpendicular to the direction of flow, as shown below in Figure 2.

TS-4b M 294-11 AASHTO

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2017 by the American Association of State

Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
Provided by IHS Markit under license with AASHTO Highway and
Licensee=Enterprise WideTransportation Officials. User=kahraman, safak
-rest of new locations/5940240048,
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS All rights reserved. Duplication Not
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 Figure 4Liner NCLS Test Specimen Procedure

9.4.3. When the pipe liner cannot be sampled, then a specimen may be taken from the profile wall of
the pipe. Where the pipe wall profile does not have flat longitudinal sections of sufficient size
to obtain a tensile specimen, a sample of the pipe wall shall be ground and made into plaques per
ASTM D4703 Procedure C. Specimens die cut from those plaques shall be tested as noted in
Section 6.1.1.

9.5. Joints and Fittings:

9.5.1. Joint IntegrityPipes that have a welded bell shall be tested to verify the strength of the weld as
follows: Assemble the joint in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. Use pipe
samples at least 300 mm (12 in.) in length. Assemble a specimen at least 600 mm (24 in.) in length
with the connection at the center. Load the connected pipe and joint between parallel plates at the
rate of 12.5 mm/min (0.5 in./min) until the vertical inside diameter is reduced by at least
20 percent of the nominal diameter of the pipe. Inspect for damage while at the specified
deflection and after load removal.

9.5.2. AlignmentAssure that the assembly or joint is correct and complete. If the pipe is bent, it should
be straightened prior to performing this test. Lay the assembly or joint on a flat surface and verify
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that it will accommodate straight-line flow.

TS-4b M 294-12 AASHTO

Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
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 9.6. Dimensions:

9.6.1. Inside DiameterMeasure the inside diameter of the pipe with a tapered plug in accordance with
ASTM D2122. As an alternative, measure the inside diameter with a suitable device accurate to
3.0 mm (0.12 in.) by taking two inside diameter measurements, the first at the seam and the
second 90 degrees from the seam, and averaging the two measurements. The average inside
diameter shall meet the requirements of Section 7.2.3.

9.6.2. LengthMeasure pipe with any suitable device accurate to 6.0 mm in 3 m (0.25 in. in 10 ft).
Make all measurements on the pipe while it is stress-free and at rest on a flat surface in a straight
line. These measurements may be taken at ambient temperature.

9.6.3. PerforationsMeasure dimensions of perforations on a straight specimen with no external forces

applied. Make linear measurements with instruments accurate to 0.2 mm (0.008 in.).

9.6.4. Liner ThicknessMeasure the liner thickness in accordance with ASTM D2122.

9.7. DelaminationExamine Type S pipe for evidence of delamination as defined and described in
Section 3.9 by cutting the pipe at the corrugation crest as shown in Figure 3 and attempting to
insert a feeler gauge between the liner and the corrugation valley as shown in Figure 4. The feeler
gauge should not pass through the corrugation valley into a void at any location along the
circumference of the pipe.
Examine Type D pipe for evidence of delamination as defined and described in Section 3.9 by
cutting a section through the pipe as shown in Figure 3 and attempting to insert a feeler gauge
between the internal supports and the liner and outer wall as shown in Figure 4. The feeler gauge
should not pass between the internal support and the liner or outer wall at any point along the
circumference of the pipe.

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Figure 5Location of Pipe Cut

TS-4b M 294-13 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
Provided by IHS Markit under license with AASHTO Highway and
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Resale, 11/14/2017 22:11:56 MST law.
 --`,,,,`,````,``,,``,,`,`,,`,`,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Figure 6Feeler Gauge Insertion

9.8. Stub Compression CapacityDetermine the stub compression capacity of the pipe section in
accordance with T 341. Conduct four tests on specimens cut from the same ring of pipe at 90-
degree intervals around the circumference.

10. INSPECTION AND RETEST

10.1. InspectionInspection of the material shall be made as agreed upon by the purchaser and the
seller as part of the purchase contract.

10.2. Retest and RejectionIf any failure to conform to these specifications occurs, the pipe or fittings
may be retested to establish conformity in accordance with agreement between the purchaser and
seller. Individual results, not averages, constitute failure.

11. MARKING
11.1. All pipe shall be clearly marked at intervals of no more than 3 m (10 ft) as follows:

11.1.1. Manufacturers name or trademark;

11.1.2. Nominal size;

11.1.3. This specification designation, M 294;

11.1.4. The plant designation code; and

TS-4b M 294-14 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
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 11.1.5. The date of manufacture or an appropriate code. If a date code is used, a durable manufacturer
sticker that identifies the actual date of manufacture shall be adhered to the inside of each length
of pipe.
Note 7A durable sticker is one that is substantial enough to remain in place and be legible
through installation of the pipe.

11.2. Fittings shall be marked with the designation number of this specification, M 294, and with the
manufacturers identification symbol.

12. QUALITY ASSURANCE

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12.1. A manufacturers certificate that the product was manufactured, tested, and supplied in accordance
with this specification, together with a report of the test results, and the date each test was
completed, shall be furnished on request. Each certification so furnished shall be signed by a
person authorized by the manufacturer.

12.2. Manufacturer RecordsManufacturers shall keep records of the following: (1) resin
manufacturers data sheets and certification that the base resin meets minimum cell class
requirements of the product specification; (2) manufacturers data sheets and quantities for all
additives blended with the resin by the pipe manufacturer; (3) test results to demonstrate that,
if resins of two different cell classifications are blended, the resulting mixture meets the
requirements of the specified cell classification; (4) correlation of resin shipment source with
pipe markings.

13. KEYWORDS
13.1. Buckling; crack; crease; delamination.

ANNEX A
(Mandatory Information)

A1. GUIDELINES FOR PIPE MADE FROM NON-PPI CERTIFIED RESIN OR

NON-PPI CERTIFIED BLENDED RESINS
A1.1. If pipe is made from a non-PPI certified resin or non-PPI certified blend of component resins, the
pipe manufacturer should have a resin testing program in place that includes the testing of each
component resin and resin blend lot for density and melt index and have the means of conducting
(in-house or contract lab) the remaining cell class and NCLS testing as specified in this standard.
The manufacturer shall test each resin or resin blend lot for full cell class and NCLS, unless a
regular quality assurance program is in place to correlate cell class results to density and melt
index. In any case, full cell class and NCLS testing should be performed on all approved/certified
resin blends at least quarterly. Additionally, the pipe manufacturer shall have the resin blend
independently tested and prequalified based on a recipe with component percentage tolerances
of no more than 1.5 percent substantiated by annual independent testing.

A1.2. When blends of virgin resins are used for pipe manufacture, the final blended resin must meet the
requirements of the standard. It is not necessary for the individual components of the blend to
meet the cell class or NCLS requirements of this standard, provided that the final blend meets all
the requirements.

TS-4b M 294-15 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
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 Final resin blends shall have a minimum NCLS value of 33 h when tested in accordance with
ASTM F2136 unless manufacturers have sufficient test data to show a lower resin NCLS value
corresponds to a finished product liner NCLS value of at least 18 h.

Sampling and testing of the final blended resin shall be performed as follows:

A1.2.2.1. The sample shall be prepared either by direct sampling from the feed hopper of the extruder (after
the material has already been weigh-blended by the blenders or other means), or by manually
weigh-blending the individual components to the specified finished blend ratios. The manufacturer
shall have current calibration records for the automated or manual weigh-blending equipment.

A1.2.2.2. The blended sample shall not contain carbon black concentrate. If carbon black concentrate is
present in the sampled material, the carbon black concentrate shall be removed prior to further
sample preparation.

A1.2.2.3. The dry-blended sample shall be fully homogenized by melt blending via a twin screw lab
extruder or other melt homogenization technique that has been verified to provide similar levels of
homogenization prior to testing for physical properties.

A1.2.2.4. The melt-blended sample shall be tested for melt index, density, and NCLS in accordance with the
number of hours per the requirements of the standard.

APPENDIX
(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. QUALITY CONTROL/QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM

X1.1. Scope:

X1.1.1. As required in Sections 10 and 12, the acceptance of these products relies on the adequate
inspection and certification agreed to between the buyer and the seller/producer. This appendix
should serve as a guide for both the manufacturer and the user. It places the responsibility on the
producer to control the quality of the material it produces and to provide the quality control
information needed for acceptance by the buyer/user. The producer is required to perform quality
control sampling, testing, and record keeping on materials it ships. It also sets forth quality
assurance sampling, testing, and record keeping that should be performed by the buyer/user to
confirm the performance of the producers control plan.

X1.2. Program Requirements:

X1.2.1. The producing company must have a quality control plan approved by the specifying agency.

X1.2.2. The producing plant must have a quality control plan approved by the specifying agency.
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X1.2.3. The plant must have an approved laboratory, either within the company or an
independent laboratory.

X1.2.4. The producing plant(s) must have a designated quality control technician.

X1.3. Quality Control Plan:

TS-4b M 294-16 AASHTO

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 X1.3.1. The producer must supply to the specifying agency a written quality control plan that shows how
the producer will control the equipment, materials, and production methods to ensure that the
specified products are supplied. The following information must be included in the plan:

X1.3.1.1. Titles of the personnel responsible for production quality at the plant(s);

X1.3.1.2. The physical location of the plant(s);

X1.3.1.3. The methods of identification for each lot of material during manufacture, testing, storage, and
shipment. The method of identification shall allow the specifying agency to trace the finished
product to the material provider;

X1.3.1.4. The method of sampling and testing of raw materials and finished product, including lot sizes and
types of tests performed; and

X1.3.1.5. A plan for dealing with nonconforming product, including how the producer plans to initiate
immediate investigation and how corrective action will be implemented to remedy the cause of the
problem.

X1.4. Approved Laboratory:

X1.4.1. All tests must be conducted at laboratories approved by the specifier. Each manufacturer may
establish and maintain its own laboratory for performance of quality control testing or may utilize
an approved independent laboratory. Records of instrument calibration and maintenance and
sample collection and analysis must be maintained at the laboratory.

X1.5. Quality Control Technician:

X1.5.1. All samples must be taken and tested by the quality control technician designated by the producer.
The designated quality control technicians will be responsible for overall quality control at the
producing plant.

X1.6. Annual Update:

X1.6.1. An annual update may be required. If required, the annual update may be submitted by the
manufacturer to the specifying agency by December 31st of each calendar year.

X1.7. Plant Approval:

X1.7.1. The plant approval process requires the manufacturer to submit an annual update to the specifying
agency. The update must identify the specific product manufactured at the plant.

X1.7.2. The specifying agency will review the manufacturers written quality control plan and a plant
inspection may be scheduled. This inspection will verify that the quality control plan has been
implemented and is being followed and that at least one designated quality control technician is
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on-site and will be present when material is being produced under this program. The laboratory
will be inspected and approved if it meets the requirements.

X1.8. Sampling and Testing:

X1.8.1. The quality assurance plan approved for each manufacturer, and/or manufacturers location,
shall detail the methods and frequency of sampling and testing for all raw materials and products
purchased or manufactured at that location. All testing shall be in accordance with current
specifications and procedures referenced in M 294.

TS-4b M 294-17 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
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 X1.8.2. Samples of materials and pipe may be taken by the specifying agency.

X1.8.3. The specifying agency may require an annual third-party independent assurance test.

X1.9. Sample Identification and Record Keeping:

X1.9.1. Manufacturers Quality Control samples are to be uniquely identified by the producing plant.

X1.9.2. Quality control and quality assurance data are to be retained by the manufacturer for 2 years and
made available to the specifying agency on request.

X1.9.3. Quality control test reports shall include the lot identification.

X1.9.4. Unless requested at the time of ordering, test reports do not have to be filed for specific projects.

X1.9.5. Reports shall indicate the action taken to resolve nonconforming product.

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TS-4b M 294-18 AASHTO

2017 by the American Association of State
Copyright American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
Provided by IHS Markit under license with AASHTO Highway and
Licensee=Enterprise WideTransportation Officials. User=kahraman, safak
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Resale, 11/14/2017 22:11:56 MST law.